It’s neither the Eiffel Tower nor the Louvre, but it’s still one of the most iconic landmarks of Paris, symbolizing the city for many as it sits along the avenue des Champs-Élysées. And, today is the 175th anniversary of the official opening of the Arc de Triomphe on July 29, 1836.

Credit: Corbis.

The Arc de Triomphe, which took 30 years to complete, is the largest triumphal arch in the world, standing at 164 feet (50 meters) high and 148 feet (45 meters) wide. Construction began on August 15, 1806, on Napoleon‘s birthday, commissioned to celebrate the military victories of the French army. Work slowed in particular after Napoleon’s abdication as empereror, and little was accomplished until 1823, when work was ordered resumed by King Louis XVIII. Designed by Jean-François-Thérèse Chalgrin, it sits in a circular plaza in Paris from which 12 grand avenues radiate, forming a star (étoile).

As Britannica’s entry on the arch describes:

The Arc de Triomphe continues to serve as an iconic symbol of France, to the country itself and to the world. The coffins of many French luminaries, such as Victor Hugo and Ferdinand Foch, have lain in state there before their interment elsewhere. In addition, victory parades have frequently marched past the arch, both those of invading powers (such as Germany, in 1871 and 1940) and of France and its allies (in 1918, 1944 [upon the liberation of Paris during World War II], and 1945 [after the end of the war in Europe]).

To honor this iconic arch, we present just a few images from Britannica’s library. The images below show how not only has it been an important symbol for the French but of armies that have fought against France.

The Arc de Triomphe and the Place Charles de Gaulle. Credit: John Lamb—Stone/Getty Images.

French air force jets trailing the national colours over the Champs-Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe during the annual Bastille Day commemoration in Paris. Credit: Gerard Cerles—AFP/Getty Images.